European Journal of Environmental Ecology

EFFECT OF LIGHTNING BOLT ON A GERMAN SHEPHERD: A REAL INCIDENCE

N. Kataria* and A.K.Kataria

nalinikataria@rediffmail.com

Cortisol, GGT, lightning bolt, PCV, Specific gravity.

In the present study, findings were recorded from a survivor dog of lightning bolt incidence in a house. Physiological parameters were investigated which included recording of heart rate, respiration rate and rectal temperature; cortisol, gamma glutamyl transferase enzyme (GGT) and glucose in plasma; packed cell volume and erythrocyte sedimentation rate and colour, pH and specific gravity of urine. Dog was not having any sign of astraphobia previously. However, after the incidence, it showed the signs like tachycardia, higher respiration rate, anorexia, pyrexia, dullness, depression, polydipsia, oligouria etc. Pyrexia persisted for about four days after incidence of lightning bolt. Blood cortisol level was higher even on day 4 of incidence than the normal. Packed cell volume was higher on day 2 and 4 of incidence suggesting haemoconcentration. This finding coincided well with the ESR measurement, which was lower on day 2 and 4 in comparison to day 6. Higher levels of plasma GGT also confirmed the stress to the pet in association with cortisol. Raised concentration of glucose on day 2 and 4 after incidence suggested the effect of higher cortisol. After the incidence, the colour of the urine was amber and colour became normal on day 6. Higher urine specific gravity showed the dehydration. On day six of incidence, physiological parameters returned to normal. Observations considered as pre warning signs of lightning stroke were also recorded from the same young adult female German Shepherd, who was confident, alert with strong behaviour and steady temperament, intelligent with good sense of smell and hearing, loyal and protective. Signs included hyperactivity, intense barking and a serious attempt to drag the house lady out of the house which saved the life of three humans in the house. Epidemiological analyses of the causes of death and vulnerability associated with meteorological disasters can provide the necessary information for establishing future adaptation measures against climate change. Therefore first hand observations recorded in this study by veterinarians may help in more directive studies towards the lightning bolts and may help in educating dog owners to understand pet psychology and warnings which can save them from ensuing disaster.